An effective move-in process is efficient for both tenants and landlords. If it’s done well, this is the beginning of a professional and respectful relationship between tenants and landlords. When you’re prepared and proactive about communicating with your tenants, it’s easy for you and your new renters.
Working with a Colorado Springs property management company is something we always recommend. It takes a lot of stress and frustration off your shoulders as a landlord, and it lets tenants know that systems and procedures will be consistently followed.
Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, here are some of the things to plan for when you move in.
Financial Matters on Move-In Day
Before moving in, tenants should expect to provide the following payments:
- First month’s rent.
- Security deposit.
- Any additional deposits or fees for pets, gate openers, pool keys, etc.
You’ll also want to be sure that all utilities are turned on and the necessary insurance policies are in force. If you’re renting out a home that you once lived in yourself, you’ll need to convert that homeowner’s insurance policy to a landlord policy with added liability insurance and coverage for things such as loss of rent. For tenants, you’ll need a renter’s insurance policy in place to ensure your personal possessions are covered as well as your own potential liability.
Moving Into a Clean and Functional Property
Tenants can expect their new home to be ready for them. There’s no reason for the property not to be clean, for the systems not to be functioning, and for minor repairs to be left ignored or delayed. As a landlord, you need to be sure that everything has been taken care of. As a tenant, you need to let your landlord know immediately if something is wrong or work that was promised has not been completed.
Keys and Codes
The keys to the property should be provided to tenants on move-in day. If there’s a security gate or any other code that’s needed to access a building, a community, or a common area space, that needs to be shared as well.
Conducting Move-In Inspections
Before move-in day, landlords or their property managers must conduct a complete and detailed inspection of the property. The purpose is to check for any maintenance items that need attention before the tenant moves in and to document the condition of your property, which will be important when the tenant moves out at the end of the lease term and it’s time to decide whether any damage was done during the lease period.
A good inspection report will include pictures, videos if necessary, and detailed notes. Both the landlord and the tenant need to sign off on this condition report so there’s agreement about how the property looks on move-in day.
This is just an overview of how the move-in process should be handled, whether you’re a rental property owner or a tenant. If you’re an owner or a tenant with questions about how to prepare for the move-in day, please contact us at Muldoon Associates. We’re here to provide the best in Pueblo property management and service to the surrounding areas in Pueblo County and El Paso County.
